FREDDY DOUGLAS: Scotland name 19-year-old in squad for Portugal

Hearts midfielder earns maiden call-up

Scotland boss Steve Clarke has handed a first call-up to 19-year-old Hearts midfielder Freddy Douglas.

The teenager has been in impressive form for the Jambos this season, making 17 appearances in all competitions and scoring three goals.

He is the first Hearts player to be called up to the Scotland squad since John Souttar in 2018.

Douglas delighted with call-up

Douglas said he was "over the moon" to be called up to the Scotland squad.

"It's a dream come true," he said. "I've worked hard for this and I'm delighted to be given the opportunity to represent my country."

Douglas will join up with the Scotland squad on Monday ahead of the friendly against Portugal on Tuesday.

Clarke: Douglas has earned his call-up

Clarke said Douglas had earned his call-up with his performances for Hearts this season.

"He's a very talented young player who has been in excellent form for Hearts," Clarke said.

"He's a good passer of the ball, he's got good vision and he's got a good engine."

"I'm looking forward to seeing how he does in training and I'm hopeful that he can make a contribution to the squad."

Douglas could make history

If Douglas makes his debut against Portugal, he will become the youngest player to play for Scotland since Billy Gilmour in 2020.

He would also be the first Hearts player to make his Scotland debut since Souttar in 2018.

Douglas is one of four uncapped players in Clarke's squad, along with Aberdeen defender Liam Scales, St Mirren midfielder Mark O'Hara and Motherwell forward Kevin van Veen.